Clayton Kershaw is staying true to Dodger blue, now stepping into a front office role.
The Los Angeles Dodgers are keeping one of their legendary figures close, as Clayton Kershaw, who recently retired, is joining the team as a special assistant. This move was reported just before the Dodgers were set to celebrate their 2025 World Series victory by receiving their championship rings against the Arizona Diamondbacks.
Kershaw hung up his cleats at the end of the 2025 season, closing out a storied career spent entirely with the Dodgers. Although he was named to Team USA’s roster for the 2026 World Baseball Classic, his inclusion was more honorary, as he didn’t take the field and was removed before the semifinals.
Transitioning seamlessly from player to other roles, Kershaw made his broadcasting debut on Opening Day with NBC’s revamped MLB coverage, showing that his influence on the game continues beyond the mound.
His shift to the front office is part of a familiar Dodgers strategy of integrating former players into advisory positions. Chase Utley, a former second baseman for the Dodgers, took on a similar role, and the organization has also welcomed veterans like Chris Archer and Nelson Cruz into its fold.
For Kershaw, this new chapter feels particularly fitting given his profound connection to the franchise. Over his career, he became one of the most dominant pitchers of his era, boasting a 2.53 ERA across nearly 3,000 innings pitched.
Kershaw’s accolades are impressive: three Cy Young Awards, five ERA titles, and the National League MVP Award in 2014 - the last time a pitcher claimed that honor. He was instrumental in multiple championship runs, further solidifying his legacy in Dodger history.
Even though his playing days are over, Kershaw’s influence on the Dodgers remains strong. Now working behind the scenes, he continues to be a vital part of the organization he helped shape for over a decade.